Baby food… it looks like goop, smells kind of odd, and sometimes even makes you recoil with one of those, “Whoa. Eww” faces. And to top it all off, you have no clue what the heck is really in it — that is, if you’re buying it by the cartload in the big-box store. Why not whip up your own batches of food for your culinary cutie? Don’t stress — it’s totally not as tough as it may seem. Check out these easy-to-make recipes that are so downright yummy you’ll actually want to try them too!
Zucchini + Apple + Kiwi Puree With Mint
It sounds more like a face mask recipe than something your baby would eat, but it’s all good when it comes to a pint-sized palette. It’s super healthy, and the mellow tastes and refreshing mint meld together to make a lightly textured food that your little one will gladly gum up. (via Baby FoodE)
Moroccan-ish Carrots and Yams
Think your baby is ready for an international introduction to the wide world of foodie finds? Even though she isn’t able to chomp down on some of your favorite fare, this fragrant recipe may do the trick. It’s simple, yet flavorful and sweet enough that it will tempt your tyke’s tiny taste buds. (via Smitten Kitchen)
Pineapple Avocado Smoothie
This isn’t technically a meant-for-baby recipe; it’s actually a pretty tasty grown-up smoothie that you can share with your kiddo. The heavy citrus (thanks to orange juice and pineapple) may not go over well with a young baby’s sensitive tummy, so it’s best to wait until your little one is at least a year old before trying this recipe out. (via Cookie + Kate)
Strawberries and Cream Breakfast Quinoa
The over-one (one year, that is) set will take to this highly textured quinoa recipe. The sweetness of the strawberries is totally tasty, but that’s not all this breakfast treat has to offer — your kiddo will also get a nutritious kick out of the superfood grain. (via The Little Epicurean)
Slow Cooker Asparagus, Spinach, and Potato Soup
It’s vegan, it’s packed with veggies, and you can make it in the slow cooker. This is another recipe that was made more for you than for baby, but that shouldn’t stop you from serving it up to your older infant (cooled appropriately, of course). Instead of playing short-order chef and cooking multiple meals, this recipe is a one-size-fits-all family fave. (via Bowl of Delicious)
Acorn Squash and Ginger Puree
It may sound like a side you’d get at a fancy restaurant, but it was developed with babies in mind! Not only is this absolutely yummy (you might find yourself sneaking a few bites), but the ginger also helps with baby’s digestion. (via Baby FoodE)
Peach Sauce With Nutmeg
As if peaches weren’t tasty enough on their own, add in nutmeg and you have a palate-pleasing recipe that pint-sized diners will love. It’s sweet, it’s kind of sassy, and you can even freeze it for a later date. (via Smitten Kitchen)